When we are ambiguous about next steps, research is a recommended step. Talk to people, read a lot, explore opportunities and always be on look out for chances to learn more. Research as much as possible to list out your available options. Subscribe to intern portals to acquaint yourself with trending job profiles.

Different time, suits different people. Summer break may be perfect to make the most out of an internship opportunity and for some, everyday during college may be perfect. Understand your priorities and commit yourself completely to your internship at a time that is perfect to you.

“Understand what an unpaid internship pays you?” . When you are offered an unpaid internship in a firm, ask yourself what is it worth? Sometimes the opportunity may turn out to be great while you meet new people and engage with the unknown to learn new things. Sometimes, it is a backlash. A healthy way to evaluate this is to figure out whether you are learning something at this place or are you rendering your services. Where there is learning, foregoing your paycheck may not pinch you.

During your internship

Professional structure and designed chaos; dress well and present yourself professionally. Though you are a student, you are now in a professional environment. Hence, you will be considered as a professional. This means you will have to dress, speak and behave like a professional. All you need to do is, show some etiquette at the place you work. That is work etiquette.

Know your employer. After your stint, if you don’t get to know your employer, your chances of connecting back with them are reduced. Know what you can expect and tap and what you can give then in return.

Know your mentor. Knowing your employer is different form knowing your mentor. Most interns are assigned to an employee of the firm, who ends up being your mentor. If the person you work does not seem good enough to be your mentor, then find one before you know you have lost on all the learning.

Get your portfolio up-to-date. Your portfolio speaks for you. It is your “branding tool”. Amateur designs may indicate negatively about your potential and abilities. Hence, enhance and update your portfolio with what you think is best to represent yourself.